Overview

Cove Mountain is one of the most visited mountains in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in eastern Tennessee, near the North Carolina border. The trail is wide and well maintained. Tens of thousands hike the trail every year. Luckily, most only walk up the first mile to a Laurel Falls one of the more popular destinations in the park. The rest of the route has much less traffic and is an enjoyable walk-up. There is also a considerably high population of bears in the area due to an abundant supply of acorns, one of their major food sources. No special equipment is necessary. Just the usual: water, food, and a jacket.

Route

The route is quite simple. The first mile is even paved to the falls. After that, it becomes a standard surface trail that you expect in the eastern mountains. The trail is 4 miles in length (8 miles round trip) and gains about 1600 feet in elevation. The forest appears to be virgin growth with many 6 feet in diameter. Oaks, hickory, hemlock and tulip poplar abound.

Getting There

Fly in Knoxville TN or Ashville, NC. It is also easy drive from most US eastern cities to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The best entrance into the park is from highway 321 into Gatlinburg. The highway will lead you right into the park. Shortly after you enter you will see the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Take a right on to Little River Road 3.7 miles to the Fighting Gap Creek Trailhead. The trail is labeled Laurel Falls.

Laurel Falls

Fees

Unlike most National Parks, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free.

Cove Mountain Trail

Camping

As with most National Parks, GSMNP has excellent organized campgrounds with great facilities. There is a $14 fee for Tents.